Tips for a Less Stressful College Application Process

The start of the school year is around the corner and for rising seniors that means the college application crunch. Whether you have been in denial until now or you are already knee-deep in Common App tabs, I want to share some tips to help you actually enjoy your senior year—and maybe even keep your stress levels in check.

1. Start with the school you're most excited about

Start with the school that makes your eyes light up when you talk about it. You'll be more motivated, more thoughtful, and likely, more efficient. Channeling that initial enthusiasm into your first application can create some great momentum for the rest of the process.

2. Break it up into bite-sized pieces

Applying to college is not a single Herculean task—it’s more like a bunch of small, completely manageable tasks. Don’t try to knock out too much in one sitting. One section at a time. Create your Common App account. Work on the "common" sections like Profile, Family, Education, or Testing. Decide if you want to put anything in the Additional Information section. Just parse it into pieces and you will feel a sense of accomplishment from getting a little bit done at a time.

3. Focus on one school at a time

I know it’s tempting to copy/paste your way through multiple applications, but consider working on one application at a time. Yes, some of the information you share will be the same for each school on your list, but when you jump from application to application you aren't getting a holistic picture of what you are sharing with each school When you focus on one school at a time, you’re more likely to share meaningful, specific information. Each school wants to know why they are a good fit for you—and that only comes through when you’re not multitasking your way through six tabs at once.

4. Tune out the peer pressure

You have been doing your research to determine what schools make sense for you. When you go back to school and start talking to your friends, do not fall into the trap of adding schools to your list that everyone is talking about. Prestigious University or Cool University of the South isn’t necessarily your school. If a friend decides to add a Canadian or European school to his list, let him. You never expressed interest in an education abroad, so it probably doesn't make sense to start down that rabbit hole now. Stay focused on what feels like a genuine fit—for your academic interests, learning style, social vibe, budget, and life goals.

5. Set boundaries with your parents

We love them. They love us. And sometimes... they ask about college applications 37 times a week. I know I am guilty of this, but maybe as a parent and IEC I get a little bit of a pass? If this sounds familiar, schedule a weekly college check-in with them—one set time each week to go over updates, questions, and concerns. Then politely request that they let it go outside of that window. This scheduled time has been known to protect your relationship...and your sanity.

6. Get those dates out of your head and onto the page

You may have a brilliant memory, but trying to mentally juggle everything you need to do is a recipe for disaster. From sending test scores to requesting transcripts and letters of recommendation to completing essays and scheduling interviews - it is way too much to keep track of in your head. Use a spreadsheet, a calendar app, or even an old-school planner—whatever works for you. Just don’t try to keep track of it in your head.

7. Be your actual self

Admissions officers want to understand who you are and what kind of a student you might be on their campus. Don’t try to write what you think they want to hear - there is no formula that will guarantee your desired outcome. Share what matters to you. Authenticity matters and if you don't get into a college by being your authentic self, well that school was not right for you anyways.

8. Finish early, then enjoy senior year!

My best advice is to get your applications done early. If you have Early Action or Early Decision applications, have those done by the middle of October. If you can get your Regular Decision applications ready to go before Thanksgiving, you will be able to enjoy the holidays without those looming deadlines interrupting your time with family and friends.

Senior year is a whirlwind of events, memories, and firsts (and lasts). Don’t miss it because you procrastinated.

The college admissions process can be stressful, yes, but the way you approach it can help you manage the stress. Think of it as a time to take stock of your amazing accomplishments and personal qualities. You get to share the best parts of yourself (and, often, some difficult parts, too) with people who will help chart the next step of your educational journey. This is an exciting time! The right school is out there. Trust yourself and trust the process. It all works out in the end.

You’ve got this.

One step at a time!